If you’ve noticed your water bill suddenly rising, it might be time to inspect your plumbing system. A sharp increase in your water usage could signal an underlying plumbing problem that needs immediate attention.

BEST Plumbing and Drainage Contractors have 50 years of experience in the industry and offer a 20-year warranty on all our work. We provide reliable, expert solutions to keep your plumbing running smoothly.

Here are 5 tips for troubleshooting annoying plumbing problems: 

Listen for Leaks

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to identify plumbing problems is to listen carefully for leaks. Small leaks, like a dripping faucet or running toilet, can go unnoticed, but they can waste significant amounts of water over time. In a busy home, these sounds are easy to overlook, but it’s important to set aside time for a quiet check. Even a small leak that seems insignificant can add up quickly, wasting thousands of liters of water.

Take the time to listen for dripping water when your house is quiet. Check faucets, toilets, and pipes for leaks. Even small leaks can add up quickly and waste thousands of liters of water over time.

Pay Attention to Your Toilet

A running toilet is another common plumbing problem. If you hear water running constantly, even when no one has recently used the toilet, it could indicate a leak in your toilet’s tank. When a toilet leaks, the tank drains slowly, triggering the float valve to open and refill the tank. This constant flow of water can waste a lot of water, increasing your utility bills.

Regularly check your toilet’s tank, flush valve, and rubber seals for wear or damage. If your toilet is running more than usual, it’s time to address the problem before it gets worse.

Look for Leaks Around the House

Leaks aren’t always visible, especially when they develop inside walls or under floors. Water pipes that carry water under pressure can corrode, crack, or loosen, leading to hidden leaks. These leaks can go unnoticed until they cause serious damage to your home.

Signs of hidden leaks include mildew, mould, darkened surfaces, or puddles of water in unexpected places. If you notice these signs near your plumbing, it’s important to call a professional plumber right away.

Check Under the Sink and Vanities

Leaks can often develop under sinks or inside vanities, where water lines connect to faucets and drains. To check for hidden leaks, use a flashlight to inspect exposed pipes for any moisture or water droplets. Even small amounts of condensation on pipes can signal that there’s a problem.

Look for wet spots on the floor or cabinet walls. If you notice signs of moisture, call a plumbing expert to prevent a small issue from becoming a larger, more expensive repair. Early detection can save you time, money, and frustration.

Inspect the Water Meter

Your water meter can help you detect hidden plumbing problems. To check for leaks, read your water meter before and after a few hours of no water usage. Make sure to turn off all faucets and appliances that use water. After waiting a few hours, check the meter again.

If your London Hydro meter reading has changed significantly while no water was being used, it’s a strong indication of a hidden leak somewhere in your plumbing system. In this case, contact BEST Plumbing and Drainage immediately for a professional inspection to find and repair the leak.

Slow and Clogged Drains – Common Issues and Solutions

Clogged or slow drains are one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face. Fortunately, most minor clogs can be addressed without professional help. However, more serious issues might require the expertise of a professional plumber.

Slow Draining Water

If you notice that water drains slowly from a sink or tub, the issue is often localized to the trap or drain line of that particular fixture. A simple clog may be causing the slow drainage, and a plunger or drain cleaner might be enough to clear it. However, if the problem persists or the drain is difficult to access, it’s time to call in a professional plumber. BEST Plumbing and Drainage can efficiently address the issue and provide lasting solutions.

Backed-Up Water

Backed-up water is another common plumbing issue that requires immediate attention. If water backs up in your sink, shower, or tub, it can indicate a serious clog further down the drain line. One of the first things you can try is using boiling water to dissolve waste buildup in the pipes. Commercial drain cleaners can also help clear residue and grease buildup.

If the water backup persists, professional plumbing intervention is necessary. A stubborn clog might need specialized tools or drain-snaking techniques, both of which BEST Plumbing and Drainage can provide.

Wet Areas on Walls or Floors

Wet spots on walls or floors near plumbing pipes are often signs of hidden leaks. These leaks can cause long-term damage to your home’s structure if left unaddressed. Small leaks behind walls or under floors can be deceptive, leading to significant water damage before you realize the full extent of the problem.

If you notice wet areas on walls or floors that persist despite cleaning or mopping, contact BEST Plumbing and Drainage immediately. Our team of experts will inspect your home for leaks and handle the necessary repairs before they lead to more serious issues like mould growth or structural damage.

Pooling Water in the Yard

Pooling water in your yard could indicate a major plumbing or drainage issue, such as a sewer line leak or blockage. If water is collecting around your foundation or in other areas of your yard, it’s important to investigate further. This could be caused by drainage issues, or it could point to a problem with your sewer line.

Pooling water after heavy rains or during dry spells is especially concerning. If left unaddressed, these issues can lead to a wet basement which can significantly damage your home’s foundation. BEST Plumbing and Drainage offers expert sewer line inspections to identify and fix the problem promptly.

Gurgling or Bubbling Sounds

If you hear gurgling or bubbling sounds when water drains, it’s a sign that there might be a blockage in your plumbing system. These sounds occur when air is trapped in the pipes due to a clog, preventing water from flowing freely.

Gurgling noises can also indicate a venting problem in your drainage system, where sewer gases are unable to escape properly. If you hear these sounds frequently, it’s important to contact a professional plumber who can diagnose and fix the issue before it worsens.

When to Call the Professionals

While many plumbing problems can be managed by homeowners, some issues require professional help. If your plumbing issue is persistent, complex, or affecting multiple areas of your home, it’s time to call in the experts.

BEST Plumbing and Drainage is equipped with the latest tools and techniques to efficiently diagnose and fix any plumbing problems. Whether you have a small leak, a slow drain, or a major backup, our experienced team will get your plumbing system back in working order quickly.

Contact BEST Plumbing & Drainage

At BEST Plumbing and Drainage, we are committed to providing top-quality plumbing services. Our licensed plumbing contractors have the expertise to handle everything from routine repairs to complex installations.

Don’t wait for plumbing issues to get worse. Contact us today for a free consultation or service. We’ll ensure your plumbing system is running smoothly and efficiently, keeping your home safe and functional year-round.

For reliable plumbing services in London, Ontario, BEST Plumbing and Drainage is your trusted partner. Let us handle the hard work so you can enjoy a hassle-free plumbing system.